When choosing
the right home, it's easy to be overcome by a beautiful
setting or a unique architectural style, overlooking the practical
details of size, layout and functionality.

Before
you begin your search, consider what you like and dislike about
your current home. Then compile a list of all the characteristics
you want in a home - both practical details and cosmetic
features. These characteristics should reflect your current
lifestyle as well as your plans for the future. Your REALTOR®
will review your list and determine how best to help you meet
your needs, given your price range and the current market conditions.

Here are
some points to consider when creating your house-hunting wish
list:

Eating
areas and kitchen. First, think about the amount of time
you spend in your kitchen and the workspace you will require.
Is a separate dining room needed for entertaining, in addition
to an eating nook?

Light
and exposure Generally speaking, large south-facing windows
produce lots of light in winter but can make your home very
hot in summer. Consider which rooms you would like to receive
the most light during the morning versus the afternoon.

Outdoor
space. You may be enchanted by the idea of a garden, but
think carefully about the amount of upkeep involved. Would a
deck or patio be suitable?

Electricity
and wiring. Will special wiring such as a high-speed data
line for Internet access or a security system need to be installed?
Look around your current home and think about how many electrical
sockets, cable and telephone outlets you use. Although these
can be added after you move in, they can be expensive to install.

Renovations.
If you're considering buying a "fixer-upper,"
think about how much work you are realistically capable of handling
yourself, and how much disruption to your lifestyle you can
put up with during the renovations. Get some cost and time estimates
before making an offer. Remember, there's a big difference
between cosmetic renovations (such as changing flooring and
cabinetry) and structural alterations (such as removing walls).

Other things
to investigate include number of bedrooms required and available
parking for you and your guests. Also ensure that there is ample
storage space for all your possessions.

Of course
there are many other factors to consider when a choosing a home
- your REALTOR® will help you evaluate your needs further.
By investing time and thought in choosing your property, you
can find a home with the most functional fit for your lifestyle.

This site provides real estate information, listings and tools servicing the Greater Vancouver and Fraser Valley Areas of British Columbia (BC) Canada. Areas serviced include Vancouver, West Vancouver, North Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, New Westminster, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, Surrey, Whiterock, Delta, Tsawwassen, Ladner, North Delta, Langley, Abbotsford, Chilliwack and Mission. As some of these areas are outside of my core service area, We provide a free referal service so that consumers can have confidence that they will be working with a trusted and competent REALTOR®in the area they are selling or buying in.

We can assist repeat home buyers & sellers, first time buyers, investors looking for single or multiple unit investment properties, building lots, and new construction project purchases.